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© 2023 by Thornton Criminal Defense, PLLC. 

Atascosa County Criminal Defense Attorney

San Antonio Office:

111 Soledad, Suite 401

San Antonio, Texas 78205

Tel: 210-439-5627

Atascosa Office:

216 N Bryant St

Pleasanton, Texas 78064

FORMER CHIEF PROSECUTOR

PERSONALIZED ATTENTION TO YOUR CASE

NO HOURLY RATES, ALWAYS A FLAT FEE

CLIENT CENTERED APPROACH TO YOUR CASE

BOARD CERTIFIED IN CRIMINAL LAW 

OVER A DECADE OF EXPERIENCE IN CRIMINAL LAW

WHY HIRE THORNTON CRIMINAL DEFENSE?

Attorney Brad Thornton is a highly experienced and Board-Certified criminal defense lawyer. With his background as a former Chief Prosecutor, he has a unique understanding of the criminal justice system and is able to provide comprehensive and effective representation to his clients. He is also deeply committed to ensuring that all individuals receive fair treatment in court, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Brad Thornton is dedicated to helping his clients achieve the best possible outcome for their case, whether it is in San Antonio or elsewhere in South Texas. He recognizes the stress and anxiety that can come with being accused of a crime, and approaches his clients with compassion while keeping them informed at every step of the process. His knowledge and experience make him a strong advocate for his clients.

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Credit Card Abuse Attorney in San Antonio, Texas

Credit or Debit Card Abuse

Texas Penal Code § 32.31 - CREDIT CARD OR DEBIT CARD ABUSE

Less than .008% of lawyers are Board Certified in Criminal Law. Click below to find out what that means and why hiring a Board Certified attorney is the only was to make sure you are getting a lawyer with the experience to handle your case.

Credit Card or Debit Card Abuse Attorney in San Antonio, Texas


Credit card or debit card abuse, also known as credit card fraud, is a serious crime in the state of Texas. Under Texas Penal Code Section 32.31, it is illegal to use a credit card or debit card without the authorization of the cardholder, or to possess a credit card or debit card with the intent to use it in an unauthorized manner.

 

Credit card or debit card abuse can take many forms, including making unauthorized charges on someone else's card, using a stolen or lost card, or possessing a card with the intent to use it fraudulently. In Texas, credit card or debit card abuse is punishable as a state jail felony, which carries a potential sentence of up to two years in state jail and a fine of up to $10,000. If the credit or debit car belonged to an elderly person, the crime is enhanced to a third-degree felony.

 

In addition to these penalties, those convicted of credit card or debit card abuse may also be ordered to pay restitution to the victim for any losses suffered as a result of the offense.

 

It is important to note that credit card or debit card abuse is a serious crime that carries significant penalties. If you have been charged with this offense, it is important to seek the advice of an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can help you understand the charges against you and advise you of your legal options.

Credit Card or Debit Card Abuse Defenses in Texas


If you have been charged with credit card or debit card abuse in the state of Texas, it is important to understand the defenses that may be available to you. Credit card or debit card abuse, also known as credit card fraud, is a serious crime that carries significant penalties, including the possibility of imprisonment and fines.

 

One defense to credit card or debit card abuse is that you did not have the intent to commit the crime. Under Texas law, intent is an essential element of the offense of credit card or debit card abuse. This means that in order to be convicted of the offense, the prosecution must prove that you intended to use a credit card or debit card in an unauthorized manner. If you did not have the intent to commit the crime, you cannot be convicted of credit card or debit card abuse.

 

Another defense to credit card or debit card abuse is that you were authorized to use the card. If you had the permission of the cardholder to use the card, you cannot be convicted of credit card or debit card abuse. This defense may be available if you are an authorized user of the card or if you had the express or implied permission of the cardholder to use the card.

 

A third defense to credit card or debit card abuse is that you were the victim of identity theft. If someone else used your personal information to obtain and use a credit card or debit card without your knowledge or consent, you cannot be held responsible for the unauthorized use of the card. In order to establish this defense, you will need to present evidence that you were the victim of identity theft and that you did not have any involvement in the unauthorized use of the card.

 

If you have been charged with credit card or debit card abuse in Texas, it is important to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can help you understand the charges against you and advise you of your legal options. Brad Thornton is one of the best Credit Card or Debit Card Abuse attorneys in San Antonio, Texas.

Punishment Ranges

Level of Offense

Potential Incarceration

Potential Fine

First-degree Felony

Second-degree Felony

Third-degree Felony

State Jail Felony

Class A Misdemeanor

Class B Misdemeanor

2 - 10 years in prison

180 days - 2 years in jail

Up to 1 year in jail

Up to 180 days in jail

2 - 20 years in prison

5 - 99 years in prison

Up to $10,000

Up to $10,000

Up to $10,000

Up to $10,000

Up to $4,000

Up to $2,000